The Emery Walker Arts & Crafts house in London, England, offers visitors a well-preserved glimpse into the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Located along the Thames in Hammersmith, this small townhouse museum was once home to Emery Walker, a printer and photographer who was closely associated with William Morris and other key figures of the movement.
The house stands out for its authentic interiors, which have remained largely unchanged since the Walker family lived there. Visitors can explore the carefully curated rooms filled with original furnishings, textiles, and decorative objects that exemplify the Arts and Crafts aesthetic. The William Morris wallpapers, Philip Webb furniture, and May Morris embroideries are particularly noteworthy.
Guided tours are the only way to visit the house, which some visitors find restrictive but others appreciate for the depth of information provided. The knowledgeable guides offer insights into the lives of the Walkers, their connections to the Arts and Crafts movement, and the significance of the objects on display.
While the house is small and tours are limited in size and frequency, this intimate setting allows for a more personal and detailed exploration of the Arts and Crafts style. However, this also means that advance booking is often necessary, which can be inconvenient for spontaneous visitors.
The museum's location by the river adds to its charm, but some visitors note that it can be a bit out of the way compared to more central London attractions. Additionally, the narrow staircases and small rooms may pose accessibility challenges for some visitors.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Emery Walker House is generally praised for its authenticity and the quality of its collection. It provides a valuable experience for those interested in design history, the Arts and Crafts movement, or simply curious about Victorian and Edwardian domestic life in London.
